WoolOn Creative Fashion Event announces its new education programme, with the first phase designed especially for the younger generation.
‘Fibre to Fashion’, for aspiring designers, and ‘Through the Lens’ for photographers and film-makers, gives primary and high school students the opportunity to hone their craft and learn from Central Otago wool crafters and designers, photographers, filmmakers and international experts.
Through the Lens – Stories of Fibre and Fashion photo and video programme will help young people tell their stories visually, inspiring us all to see the future of wool as a sustainable fibre through their eyes.
Fibre to Fashion programme will help develop creative young minds, bringing ethical fashion and environmentally sound wool crafting techniques to a new generation of designers.
WoolOn Education Coordinator Mary Hinsen said the introduction of the education programme was about giving back to the community and bringing age-old craft techniques to a new generation of designers.
“Young people are our future – they are often very passionate about sustainability and the environment. Wool is a sustainable fibre. It’s a fabric that lasts and young people can actually upcycle, and recycle it - fashion isn’t always about something made in a factory,” Mary said.
“We've been approached by successful designers and film industry personalities, both New Zealand-based and overseas, that having heard about the programme want to help inspire young people.”
Programme participants will receive five months coaching, and at its conclusion Fibre to Fashion students will be able to enter their design in WoolOn Creative Fashion Event. The top Through the Lens student will have the opportunity to capture images of the show, Ms Hinsen said.
Primary and High Schools have been contacted about the programme, with a focus on Central Otago schools initially, and plans to expand wider in the future.
Entries for the programme are now open and will close early March.
WoolOn Creative and Fashion Society is a Central Otago not-for-profit organisation showcasing wool design and artistry. The renowned WoolOn Creative Fashion event 2020 will be held 14-15 August at Highlands in Cromwell.